Since we’re inching toward the end of the academic year, many co-parents are planning family vacations for spring and summer breaks. Whether they be short road trips across state lines or longer treks requiring air travel, our “Co-Parenting Convos” this week will provide some helpful ideas for communicating with your co-parent/co-caretaker on travel matters.

Now, let’s pretend you’re working on narrowing down your vacation plans with your child...

We suggest, the first thing you do, is let your co-parent/co-caretaker know about your vacation plans as soon as possible. It isn’t your child’s job to play telephone and keep either one of your in the loop. If you haven’t yet read our blog “Co-Parenting Convos – No more Telephone”, click here. This is even more important depending on your Custody and Visitation Order. This is because you may have to coordinate certain vacation times/travel plans with your co-parent/co-caretaker to obtain approval beforehand or coordinate certain dates and times. Therefore, it is often best to clue your co-parent/co-caretaker in on your travel plans before you complete anything, so there is no confusion or wasted expense or energy related to disagreements —that’s not fun for anyone. Once you and your co-parent/co-caretaker have coordinated for specific dates and arrangement for your vacation time, it's good to keep a copy of those communications. Better yet, you can ensure you both have those plans in writing, just in case either one of you needs to refer to them in the future. The name of the game is proactivity and clarity! Once you have settled on your travel plans, provide your co-parent/co-caretaker with a detailed list of pertinent information. The list should, ideally, include the following:

While the above are just a few items that you could communicate to your co-parent/co-caretaker, there may be more based on the type of vacation you are taking, and again, your current Order. Ultimately, try not to see this as you “checking in” with your co-parent/co-caretaker, “gaining their permission”, or even, that they are “tracking you.” Instead, view this as an opportunity to keep your co-parent/co-caretaker informed of the things you would want to know if the tables were turned. That way, your vacation can truly be enjoyable for all! Stay up to date with our “Co-Parenting Convos” series by subscribing to our social media platforms, blog, and vlog. If you need help with your custody and visitation/parenting time matter, or to discuss any co-parenting/co-caretaker issues, our experienced family law attorneys at Morris Williams LLC are here to help! Contact us today to schedule a consultation by calling (757) 226-9425 or by emailing us at admin@morriswilliamslaw.com.